RENO, NV — Automobiles that some enthusiasts have only dreamed of, motorcycles, boats, off-road vehicles, planes and even classic cars uncovered in barns are all awaiting new owners. These and many other elements comprise the debut of the Hot August Nights Auction presented by Motorsport Auction Group (MAG) at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center from Thursday, August 4 through Saturday, August 6, 2016.
The new auction company is welcomed into the Hot August Nights family for the event’s 30th anniversary this year. Four partners from across the U.S.—Mike and Sandy Oberle, Frank Yaksitch and Larry Gayhart—formed the Reno-based organization with the goal of building the next great auction company using their combined and varied expertise in the business and automotive worlds. Together, they rounded up some of the country’s top autos, from hot rods and classics to special interest and exotic vehicles, to offer on the auction block for MAG’s inaugural event.
The pinnacle of the auction is a rare and visually striking vehicle that’s one of only nine known to exist, and twelve ever made: a ’39 General Motors Futurliner #3 “Power of the Air Age.” Customized by Utah-based auto designer and builder Dave Kindig of Kindig-It Designs, the Futurliner will cross the auction block at 2 pm on Saturday. Kindig will also be on-site at the auction each day signing autographs.
Some of MAG’s other top offerings spanning the financial, geographic and manufacturing spectrum are a ’32 all-steel custom Ford Roadster called “Stoked,” a ’65 Sunbeam Tiger, a Detroit Autorama Ridler Award-winning ’49 Chevy, an ’87 factory Slantnose Porsche, several Cobras to be auctioned to benefit the Wounded Warriors Project, an N3N biplane, a sandrail and a ’78 Howard V Drive T-Deck Showboat, to name just a few of the hundreds of vehicles up for auction.
In addition to the items on stage, the expo features a wide array of other components to keep enthusiasts engaged. The Barn Find Garage sponsored by Summit Racing Equipment shows attendees how some classics are uncovered in surprising places, while a tribute to car-building legend Ed “Big Daddy” Roth and his renowned Rat Fink illustrations add to the expo’s quirky and colorful side. Vendors showcasing a variety of authentic memorabilia and other gear will also be on-site with wares to peruse or purchase.
“We’re thrilled to launch our company during Hot August Nights’ 30th anniversary, and to help propel a new era for the beloved event,” said Motorsport Auction Group Partner and Spokesperson Mike Oberle. “In our first year, we’ve already acquired more cars for auction than other companies have in the past, and attracted interest from people coming to attend from across the globe.”
Doors for the MAG Auction and Expo open at 9 am daily, with the auction beginning at 10 am and running until 7 pm Public admission is $15 on Thursday, $20 on Friday and Saturday, or a pass for all three days is $40.
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